Purpose-built’ Art in Hospitals: Art with Intent

‘Purpose-built’ Art in HospitalsArt with IntentOver the past three decades, guidance on the selection of art in hospitals has suggested realistic art that depicts soothing and comforting images such as tranquil waters, green vegetation, flowers, and open spaces. Based on these findings, curators have been cautioned to avoid art with uncertain meaning that risks upsetting viewers in stressful states. However, some hospitals exhibit ambiguous or abstract art and cite anecdotal evidence of its appropriateness for healthcare settings. More recent research is going beyond anecdotal evidence, and indicates that the ambiguity of meaning in abstract compositions can have positive effects. ‘Purpose-built’ Art in Hospitals is built on an international study of artwork in hospitals around the globe. Exploring ‘purpose-built’ (specially commissioned) artwork in hospitals through the dual lens of an artist and healthcare professional, Rollins identifies 15 specific ‘purposes’ of visual artwork in hospitals and presents a compelling case for their use that is grounded in research. The book builds the reader’s understanding of the many functions of artwork in hospitals, with the goal of encouraging greater variety in art offerings to better serve the many diverse needs of patients, families, visitors and staff within the hospital environment.Additional ISBNs9781839096815, 9781839096822‘Purpose-built’ Art in Hospitals: Art with Intent is written by Judy Rollins and published by Emerald Publishing Limited. ISBNs for ‘Purpose-built’ Art in Hospitals are 9781839096808, 1839096802 and the print ISBNs are 9781839096839, 1839096837. Additional ISBNs include 9781839096815, 9781839096822.